Macron: Lebanon's sovereignty is a red line, new international solution coming after UNIFIL

French President Emmanuel Macron affirmed the necessity of respecting Lebanon's sovereignty and its people's rights, stressing that the Lebanese state is the sole authority empowered to ensure Hezbollah's disarmament.

In his address to the United Nations General Assembly, Macron stated that believing Israel's security can be achieved by violating the sovereignty of neighboring countries is a grave mistake, calling for respect of all peoples' and nations' sovereignty without double standards.

Alternative international framework to "UNIFIL"

Regarding the international presence in southern Lebanon, Macron announced France is working with Italy and friendly countries to reach an "effective solution" maintaining stability, as the mandate of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) nears its end.

This comes as the international force commander stressed the importance of ensuring a smooth transition of duties to the Lebanese Army and UN agencies before withdrawal begins, while consultations continue between Paris and Beirut on a new international framework to sustain stability and strengthen the Lebanese Army's capabilities in the south.

Gaza and West Bank at the core of the speech

On the Palestinian file, Macron criticized ongoing violations in the West Bank, reaffirming France's commitment to the Palestinian people's right to sovereignty and existence.

He noted that dozens of countries have recognized the State of Palestine, questioning the credibility of the international community if it remains unable to act amid events in Gaza.

He argued that what is described as peace in Gaza has not led to opening humanitarian corridors, describing the situation in the strip as a "shame for all of us," and reiterated calls for respecting the Palestinian people's fundamental and legitimate rights.

Hormuz as top international priority

On the regional issue, Macron stressed that reopening the Strait of Hormuz is a top priority for the international community, warning against using the maritime passage as leverage or bargaining tool.

He affirmed that ensuring freedom of navigation and safe passage of ships through the strait, alongside uninterrupted energy supplies, serves the interest of the international community.

Paris, coordinating with Washington, is working on a draft resolution at the Security Council to establish an international mission to guarantee freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Ukraine and Syria

On Ukraine, Macron accused Russia of continuing its war against civilians and occupying territory belonging to a sovereign state, affirming France will continue efforts to push for negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv as soon as possible.

He also called for support to help Syria regain its sovereignty and territorial integrity, reiterating France's commitment to the role of the United Nations and to upholding international and international humanitarian law.